Photo Flash: IBALONG by Tanghalang Pilipino Plays Now thru 3/3

Tanghalang Pilipino presents IBALONG; photo by Erik Crisologo Liongoren

By Precious Lee Cundangan

Manila, Philippines, February 7, 2013 -- Photographer Erik Crisologo Liongoren previously released his first shots of Tanghalang Pilipino's (TP) most ambitious production to date, the epic dance drama "Ibalong," inspired by the City of Legazpi's (capital of the Bicol Region) week-long, non-religious festival.

For "Ibalong," TP wants to break the norm in theatrical presentation with elaborate sets and costumes, and with highly energetic fight choreography.

"Ibalong" tells the story of a league of warriors, led by Handyong, who arrive in Bicol (formerly Ibalon), where these men face vicious attacks from beasts and monsters -- a cyclops, winged sharks, wild carabaos, and snakes.

Directed by Tuxqs Rutaquio, featuring music by Carol Bello and libretto by Rody Vera, "Ibalong," also tells an unlikely love story between Handyong (Remus Villanueva) and Oryol (Jenine Desiderio), a beast.

Besides Villanueva and Desiderio, the show's cast also include May Bayot, Myke Salomon, Red Nuestro, Delphine Buencamino, Trixie Esteban, Cheeno Macaraig, Tara Cabaero, Hazel Maranan, Opaline Santos, Kristofer Kliatchko, Cyril Balderama, and Philip Palmos.

The production runs tonight, February 8 to Sunday, March 3 at the Cultural Center of the Philippines.

For tickets, call TicketWorld at (632) 891-9999 or visit ticketworld.com.ph.

Tanghalang Pilipino presents IBALONG

Myke Salomon

Tanghalang Pilipino presents IBALONG

Tanghalang Pilipino presents IBALONG (L) May Bayot